Travel – Luxury Hotels in Burma

“It is quite unlike any other place you know”

(R. Kipling)

The once relatively untravelled land of Burma has now opened up thanks to the announcement by Aung San Suu Kyi 2 years ago that she would welcome “responsible tourism”. Burma, a country that many avoided, has now become the one that everyone wants to see.

It’s no surprise that interest is growing with the wealth of jaw-dropping sights to choose from; the Pagan’s plain of a thousand temples, the leg-rowing fishermen of Inle Lake, and the golden stupa of Rangoon’s Shwedagon Pagoda. But what really draws you in is the chance to visit a place where the 21st-century world has barely intervined. In Burma there is still a strong sense of the old Orient, where following the ways of Buddhism is still an everyday part of life.

Before it goes the same way as Thailand and other previously ‘undiscovered’ countries, we suggest you get on the phone to your travel agent and start planning what could quite possibly be the holiday of a lifetime. Boasting some of the most beautiful sunsets in the world, unspoilt beaches and a wealth of culture unrivalled by anywhere you’ve probably already been. If backpacking isn’t quite your thing, then take a look at this handful of luxury hotels, which will undoubtably make your trip all the more special…

THARABAR GATE HOTEL

This hotel is located in the most unique archeological site of South East Asia, the ancient capital of the Burmese Empire, Old Bagan. Surrounded by more than 4000 ancient temples and Pagodas, you will be overwhelmed by the breathtaking views and just a 5 minute walk from the spectacular Ananda Temple known as ‘The Jewel of Bagan’.

With 83 luxury rooms including 4 Suites, every room is decorated with teak floors, typical Burmese furniture and has its own private garden. With 2 dining choices to go for, the restaurant is well known for its open air fine dining around the pool. It also features a poolside bar, perfect to recline by with cocktails in the evening. After a day of sightseeing, you can relax at the spa with a range of traditional treatments from Myanmar and Thailand.

The 24-hour Butler service is also there to accommodate all your wants; from arranging your transport, guides and tours, or to book an unforgettable hot-air ballon ride to really commemorate the holiday.

For more information visit: tharabargate.com

THE GOVERNORS RESIDENCE

This beautiful hotel takes the form of a romantic, colonial-style mansion constructed of elegant teak, dating from the 1920’s. Located in Yangon’s leafy Embassy Quarter, close to the Shwedagon pagoda and other major landmarks, it’s extensive gardens, shaded by ancient trees, are set around lotus ponds and a luxurious fan-shaped swimming pool.

Simply stunning when lit by lanterns at night, the pool is the perfect place to enjoy the famous Burmese and International cuisine. Relax in the library; enjoy a cocktail in the Kipling Bar; laze on colonial-style armchairs beneath the ceiling fans. A truly special destination for any discerning traveller.

For more information visit: govenorsresidence.com

THE INLE LAKE VIEW RESORT

So far, the Inle Lake View Resort is the only deluxe boutique hotel of international standard on the shores of the Inle Lake. The beautiful hotel is built on 24 acres of lush land, ideally located in a picturesque area overlooking the Inle lake.

Just a 40 minute drive from the Heho’s airport and with direct access to the lake from the hotels’ jetty on the western edge of the lake, the hotel offers luxury and elegance throughout. The relaxing spa is beautifully designed and able to cater to the most discerning visitor. Furthermore, the restaurant serves some of the finest wine and cuisine to be found in Myanmar. The accommodation ranges from 100 sq meter lake-side villas to simpler deluxe rooms – whatever you are looking for, they have.

For more information visit: inlelakeview.com

AUREUM PALACE HOTEL

Set within the Bagan archaeological preservation zone, amongst the ancient temples of The Kingdom of Bagan this wonderful resort and luxury spa are set amidst 27 acres of tropical landscaped gardens. It offers the ultimate chance for relaxation.

Adorning each property are antiques, artifacts and local arts, complementing the majestic ambiance of the resort and its surroundings. Bedrooms are spacious and elegant with all modern facilities; bathrooms are large and lavishly equipped with luxurious amenities.

For more information visit: aureumpalacehotel.com

POPA MOUNTAIN RESORT

Rising up from the plains, situated on a steep sided volcanic peak is the lush surroundings of Mount Popa- approximately 1 hour from the ancient city of Bagan, perched midway to the summit of this legendary mountain, this is a truly unique experience with the magnificent scenery of Popa Mountain affording unparalleled views of plains, valleys and distant mountains.

With rustically designed chalets perched on the hill, each has magnificent views across the ravine, traditionally furnished and fully equipped with modern facilities amidst the hillside. The acclaimed restaurant and extensive terracing provides a perfect place to relax and take in the breathtaking scenery, the hotel remains deeply committed to eco-tourism with the kitchen supplied by the organic produce from the resorts organic farms.

For more information visit: myanmartreasureresorts.com